The woman fighting IS in Somalia

This episode of The Fifth Floor from the BBC World Service explores the ongoing struggle against the Islamic State's branch in Somalia, focusing on the Puntland Defence Force and the rare but courageous role of women in combat. Reporter Sahnoun Ahmed embeds with local fighters in the harsh Al-Misgad mountain range, detailing their daily hardships—extreme weather, lack of infrastructure, and reliance on camels for supplies—while fighting a well-funded and ideologically driven enemy. Central to the story is Muna Ali Dahir, a mother of eight who defies cultural norms to fight for a future free from IS influence. Her motivation, driven by love for her children and a deep sense of national ownership, is powerfully captured in her words. The episode also features an imam who rejects IS's interpretation of Islam, calling their actions a distortion of faith. The narrative is interwoven with broader reflections on identity, particularly through the story of Iranian Jews in Israel, who maintain deep cultural ties to Iran despite geopolitical tensions. These communities grapple with loyalty, nostalgia, and the hope for reconciliation, illustrating how global conflicts reverberate through personal and collective memory.